- Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has explained why he chose to play left back Manzur Okwaro in a defensive midfield role during their CHAN 2024 opener match against DR Congo.
- Kenya defeated DR Congo 1-0 to secure their first win in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
- Kenya’s goal was scored by Austin Odhiambo in the match held at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Sunday, August 3.
Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy has revealed why he opted to deploy Manzur Suleiman Okwaro as a defensive midfielder rather than in his usual position at left/center back during Kenya’s opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Sunday.
Okwaro was among the starting eleven in McCarthy’s lineup, playing a significant portion of the match, which Kenya won 1-0 against DR Congo at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, before being substituted in the second half.
Despite being more familiar with a defensive role at the back, the Kenya U20 Rising Stars talent adapted impressively in the holding midfield position.
He linked up seamlessly with attacking midfielders Austin Odhiambo and Alpha Onyango, frequently breaking up Congo’s attacking moves and anchoring the midfield with composure and intelligence.
McCarthy explains reason for new role
Speaking to the press after the match, the South African tactician explained why he selected the KCB player for the unfamiliar role, citing detailed tactical analysis from closed-door training sessions prior to the DR Congo encounter.
I chose Manzur after observing his training sessions with the U20 national team. I was informed of his immense quality, potential and physicality,” McCarthy stated.
Initially, I considered deploying him at left-back, but during our behind-closed-doors friendlies, I recognized his tremendous stamina and adaptability qualities I believed would be crucial for today’s game plan.”
Okwaro’s role key to disrupting DR Congo’s game plan
McCarthy further explained that the decision to reposition Okwaro was part of a broader tactical plan to counter DR Congo’s approach, which relied heavily on a dominant central striker and quick transitions.
Their plan was to build around a powerful number nine, aiming to create overloads and play off him. I needed a player with pace, strength, and good anticipation to break their rhythm and link effectively with our creative midfielders.
Manzur rose to the occasion brilliantly. He’s young, athletic, and fearless and that’s what made him the right choice for today,” he added.
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Although McCarthy emphasized that Okwaro remains a left back by trade, he expressed satisfaction with the player’s ability to adapt to the defensive midfield role.
Manzur is a left back, and that’s where I ultimately want him to play. But I was very pleased with how well he adapted to the midfield role, especially considering he has primarily been playing as a center back,” McCarthy reiterated.
With the victory secured, McCarthy now turns his focus to Kenya’s second Group A match, where they will face Angola on Thursday evening at the same venue.
Angola will be eager to bounce back, having suffered a 2-0 defeat to Morocco in their opening fixture.
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